Most common mistakes - Passive voice over active voice

When discussing the differences between passive and active voice, it's essential to recognize that many students tend to overuse the passive voice. One common mistake is using it unnecessarily, which can make writing less engaging. For instance, instead of saying “The book was read by John,” it's often more direct and clearer to say, “John read the book.”

Another frequent error is not understanding when to appropriately use passive voice. It's useful in situations where the doer is unknown or irrelevant. For example, “The window was broken” might be preferable if we don't know who did it. However, in most cases, especially in academic writing, active voice enhances clarity and impact.

Additionally, students sometimes confuse passive constructions with complex sentences. Remember that a sentence can be clear and concise without resorting to passivity. Always aim for straightforward expression unless there's a compelling reason for using the passive form.

To improve your writing, practice identifying instances where you can shift from passive to active voice. This will not only strengthen your style but also make your arguments more persuasive and dynamic.

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